Alternative Energy Sources for Puerto Rico

The Commonwealth of Puerto Rico is considering using renewable energy to reduce their operating costs and dependence on fossil fuels. This project will evaluate the feasibility of using alternative energies to power a proposedReverse Osmosis Water Treatment Plant (ROWTP) in Arecibo, Puerto Rico. Traditional energy has many detrimental impacts on the environment so there is a need to consider alternatives. There are many technologies that produce clean and renewable energy. The alternative energy sources that SolaryA assessed are solar power, and wind power.

Terra SolaryA USA, LLC (hereinafter SolaryA), a duly vested limited liability company in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, has determined the viability of the energy sources by conducting an analysis of each option. SolaryA willperform site analyses of the proposed locations to determine the amount of energy available locally and any physical features of the area. SolaryA estimates the costs and amount of energy that each could produce by reviewing case studies, contacting manufacturers, and interviewing expertsin renewable energies. To assess the environmental aspects, SolaryA will establish the impacts of each energy option and perform surveys to gauge public opinion. Finally, with our cost benefit analysis, SolaryA will compare all of the above findings to create a recommendation for Puerto Rico.

SolaryA recommended thata combination of solar and wind power be used. Although solar and wind power would not be able to power the entire plant, it would be enoughto make a significant contribution. Implementing the use of renewable energy would make Puerto Rico a forerunnerin the global trend towards environmental responsibility, which, as the results of our survey show, would greatly improve the Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority ‘s (PRASA) public image
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The goal of this Project is to assess the feasibility of implementing various alternative energy sources for the proposed plant. These options included solar power, and wind power. SolaryA conducted research, consulted experts and performed site analyses in order to compare the environmental impacts and costs associated with each of these options. Finally, SolaryA presented the advantages and disadvantages of each choice and made a recommendation to PRASA.